GOP's transition leader says common sense 'an endangered species' in D.C.

By Michael O'Brien - 11/13/10 06:00 AM ET

Republicans are working to make sure the House of Representatives functions better than ever, the leader of the GOP's effort to transition into power said Saturday.

Rep. Greg Walden (R-Ore.), incoming Speaker John Boehner's (R-Ohio) pick to lead the Republican transition into the majority in the House, outlined the reform the GOP would look to undertake.

"For too long, Washington has been doing what’s best for Washington, and they get away with it," Walden said in the Republican weekly radio address. "Too often, accountability counts for nothing, and transparency for even less, and common sense -- well, it’s an endangered species."

“That’s why our leader, John Boehner, has pledged to run the House of Representatives differently than it’s been run in the past – by both parties," Walden added. "And he’s asked me to lead a transition effort designed to ensure our new majority will be ready to serve as the people’s voice and implement the proposals that Americans are demanding."

Walden and his transition team kicked off meetings at the Capitol this past week to listen to suggestions for reforms and changes Republicans might make when they formally take control of the House in January.

Already, Republicans have signaled some of the tweaks they'll make. Incoming House Rules Committee Chairman David Dreier (R-Calif.) asked that cameras be installed in his committee room. Walden also said that the GOP was examining the time in which a bill is posted online before it faces a vote by lawmakers, as well as ways to cut the cost of running Congress.

But the Oregon Republican also made his pitch to Americans to contribute ideas online, through Boehner's website.

"We invite Americans from all walks of life to visit GOPLeader.gov/NewMajority where you can submit your ideas. We’ve already received hundreds of ideas from across the country," he said. "Whether you associate with one party, no party, or the Tea Party, we want to hear from you."